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What does poison ivy look like? Remember the rules of 3.
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It’s mosquito season again, and vector control is already out in search of the breeding grounds of these annoying little pests. However, during summer there is one itch that is even less fun to scratch than a mosquito bite.
For the second time in four years, I have managed to pick up a case of contact dermatitis; the red, itchy pustule-covered rash which results from contact with poison ivy. I’d like to say it was in pursuit of a monster bass somewhere in the dense woods surrounding the backwaters of Detroit Lakes, Minn. last weekend, but it wasn’t. Sadly, it was merely the result of the removal of a boat track from my grandmother’s old boat house. I do take consolation in the fact that there is now a cool fishing hangout to use at the lake.
The thrill of a new fishing shack aside, there’s nothing fun about poison ivy. This three leaved plant, found throughout much of the North American continent, affects hundreds of thousands of people each year. Along with poison oak and poison sumac, this plant produces a red rash marked by itchy streaks, bumps, pustules and blisters that continuously ooze fluid as the body attempts to rid itself of the primary culprit – a chemical called urushiol.
Urushiol is a colorless oil which is classified as an allergen. According to WebMD.com, the chemical creates an allergic reaction in which it over-stimulates the body’s immune system to fight what in reality is a harmless substance. Certain individuals exhibit no signs of reaction to this compound, while others exhibit life-threatening symptoms when exposed to the oil of the poison ivy plant. Most develop a rash at the immediate contact point and other areas that are exposed to the chemical.
Much of this exposure results from direct contact with the leaves, stems and roots of the plant, but this type of contact is not the only way urushiol is transferred from plant to person. Clothing, sporting equipment, such as fishing rods or golf clubs, and garden tools can transfer the oil once they come in contact with the plant. Pets are also contribute to the problem. If a cat or dog has been outside in an area where these plants are present, there is a good chance the urushiol is on the animal’s fur. Since animals do not react to the plant as humans do, the oil in the fur can lead to more blistering on a person, despite no visible warning on the animal.
Many believe that the rash caused by poison ivy can be spread by itching an affected area and bursting the tiny blisters, spreading pus and in turn the chemical around the area of infection. However, this is not the case. The spread of the rash results strictly from contact with the chemical which causes it, so it is likely that the victim has made contact with an object still containing urushiol. (In my case, re-wearing the same shirt I wore to do work on the boathouse in before washing it, contributed to the spread.)
There are ways to prevent the unwelcome summertime ailment of contact dermatitis. The first is to identify the poisonous plants in your area. The statement “Leaves of three – let it be” is a good rule of thumb. Poison ivy has three broad leaves and may come in a variety of configurations such as a vine, shrub or solitary plant. Poison oak is similar in appearance with at least three small oak-leaf shaped leaflets. Along with the seven-leafed poison sumac plant, this troublesome trio can be found most often in damp wooded areas across the United States.
Second, preventing direct contact with the plant is important in arresting development of the rash. Wear long sleeved shirts, jeans, and protective gloves made from latex when working around areas near the plants. Gloves made of cloth won’t cut it, and can trap and transfer the oil to hands and forearms.
Next, there are many products on the market to help stop poison ivy before it starts. Creams and salves, similar to sunscreen, help prevent the urushiol from poison ivy from entering the skin. By applying this protective barrier before going out into the woods, a would-be victim can escape annoyance when coming in contact with the plants.
Finally, washing potentially affected areas, clothing and equipment in soap and water as soon as possible will help eliminate most, if not all of the urushiol deposited on a person coming in contact with poison ivy.
By following these recommendations, a person can avoid scratching his head (or back, or arms) in frustration. Should the effects of these poison plants appear on your body, it is best to see a doctor to deal with the symptoms and the ensuing annoyance. Remember the best way to avoid the pain of poison ivy is being alert and prepared to encounter this common summertime plant found in our outdoors.
